Public services across Greece will grind to a halt Tuesday as the civil servants’ umbrella union, ADEDY, launches a 24-hour nationwide strike to protest the government’s newly passed budget and express solidarity with escalating rural mobilizations.
The walkout will close schools and disrupt municipal operations throughout the country.
Unions representing secondary school teachers (OLME) and primary school educators (DOE) have confirmed their participation.
They will be joined by staff from public hospitals, health centers, and ambulance services, ensuring that only emergency crews will operate in medical facilities.
Local administration will also see significant disruptions, with mayors mobilizing through the Central Union of Municipalities (KEDE) to demand increased funding and staffing.
"We are striking against a budget that neglects the needs of workers," ADEDY said in a statement. The federation has organized a central rally at Athens' Syntagma Square at 11 a.m., with a second demonstration planned for 6:30 p.m.
While no public transport strikes are scheduled for Tuesday, authorities warned of route modifications in downtown Athens due to the protests.
However, commuters face delays later in the week: urban bus drivers in Athens will hold a work stoppage on Wednesday, Dec. 17, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. to hold a general assembly.
The private-sector General Confederation of Greek Workers (GSEE) is not participating in Tuesday's action but has scheduled an administrative plenary session for Wednesday morning.
The strike comes as the government faces pressure on multiple fronts, with civil servants linking their grievances to the roadblocks set up by farmers, who are demanding relief from high energy costs and production expenses.